Manchester United match: Rashford watches in hat, Carrick confirms he will face Milan! Two others also set to play.

On Wednesday, Manchester United overcame Leeds United in a penalty shootout in a pre-season friendly at Croke Park, with 28-year-old English winger Marcus Rashford watching from the touchline.

Cameras showed him wearing a white baseball cap, engaged in a serious conversation with teammate Kobbie Mainoo. Following the match, Red Devils boss Michael Carrick confirmed that Rashford is included in his new season plans and will play in the last pre-season friendly against AC Milan on Saturday.

Carrick told Manchester United's official TV channel MUTV that he was very pleased with his players' display, and that Rashford has taken part in full team training this week, rejoining the squad. He will wear the number 14 jersey in the new season, the same as he did at Barcelona last season.

"I really enjoyed the entire evening. It felt like a real match," Carrick said. "I have to say, the fans have been incredible since we arrived. So many people cheering us on, the atmosphere has been fantastic. We are really fortunate to be part of it."

Regarding the match itself, Carrick commented: "The young players all performed excellently, everyone was outstanding. It was a tough game because Leeds United are a strong side. You could see the opposition made many adjustments, and the two teams were almost evenly matched. It was a good challenge for us, and it's great to win. There are many positives to take away."

Speaking about Rashford, Carrick stated clearly: "Marcus (Rashford) is our player, and he has recovered very well. I have known Marcus for a long time, and he always brings something different to the team. He returned in great shape and started normal training after a couple of days. To be honest, his condition is quite normal. We are looking forward to the start of the season."

Carrick, 45, confirmed that no Manchester United player suffered an injury during pre-season, with the only absentees being De Ligt, Sesko, and Ugarte, all due to last season or the World Cup. The last to return, Rashford, Kobbie Mainoo, and Lisandro Martinez, will all be available for the match against Milan.

"The three of them are in good shape. They haven't been away from the pitch for long, actually only about three weeks," Carrick said. "If it were during the season, it wouldn't be a problem. But now it's still pre-season, obviously they had their holidays and just came back. Fortunately, they are all in good condition. We hope everyone can participate in some way in these last three matches."

Carrick said the final pre-season match will give more playing time to those who need match practice. "On Saturday, those who need help will get more support, which will lay a good foundation for the week of training before the trip to Hull City. As I said, finding that balance will be good, so that all players can definitely be involved."

Rashford and England teammate Mainoo facing Milan will add more interest, because the 'Rossoneri' are currently managed by former Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim, who has conflicts with the two, especially Rashford, who was one of the 'five rats' directly expelled from the dressing room.

Rashford has scored 138 goals in 426 appearances for Manchester United, but has not played any official matches for the club since December 2024, and it was thought his numbers would be frozen. But now he has a chance to add to those figures.

Mazraoui, who scored the winning penalty for Manchester United, was also asked about Rashford's future, and he replied: "Rashford can be an important new signing for us this season. Of course, provided he doesn't leave."